He looked at her with interest. “Name it, Katrione.”
“Because I broke the Rule, I have to undergo a trial. If I am successful, I may stay. If I fail, I must leave the Unity forever.” In a few words, she told him of the Maitress’ visit of the night before and the conditions of the trial.
He said scathingly, “But this is ludicrous! I have a shattered kneecap. You cannot possibly think your ‘mystical powers’ can help me. I will not be a party to this.”
Katkin began to get angry. Her whole future hung in the balance and he seemed not to care at all. “You said you would do anything! You are asking me to lie for you. This is what I ask in return. Why won’t you let me try? Are you afraid?”
Tomas looked at her mildly, plainly surprised by the outburst. “My dear Katrione, indeed I am not afraid
